1993 GMC Sonoma SLE 2.8

Summary:

An excellent commuter vehicle

Faults:

I replaced the muffler at 42,000 miles.

I replaced the valve cover gaskets at 44,000 miles.

General Comments:

The truck has been very dependable since I got it.

I get between 22-23 mpg every time I fill up.

I put 180 miles on it everyday and it never skips a beat.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th March, 2003

26th Feb 2004, 08:03

Ever since I bought the truck from my friend I have had nothing, but great gas mileage and few minor problems considering it has 212,000 miles on it. It is still running like it is brand new off the lot.

1993 GMC Sonoma SLE 4.3

Summary:

A very good product from GM

Faults:

Bigger stuff:

Starter was replaced at 90,000 miles.

The Electronic Control Module was replaced at 110,000 miles.

Radiator was replaced at 135,000 miles.

Little, normal stuff:

Brakes at 98,000 miles.

Serpentine belts at 75,000 - 110,000 - 153,000.

General Comments:

I just love this truck. I feel like it's life is only half over. It still looks good and drives well.

I bought it for $12,400 ten years ago and have had very few problems. I call that cheap, reliable transportation.

It is my only vehicle and I drive it 18 miles to work everyday and also use it to haul dirt and wood occasionally.

Plenty of power, reliable, feel very safe in it.

I consistently get 20 miles per gallon in winter and 22 in summer.

Still have the original clutch.

Little rust yet at 153,000 miles and ten Wisconsin winters although I've been getting green paint on my polishing rags from day one. Wish it had a clear coat.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th January, 2003

19th May 2004, 20:21

I love my truck. I bought it with 87,000 miles and 13,000 miles later it still runs excellent. The only thing that I've had to replace is the exhaust from the muffler back, and the shocks, but that is all. I drive it to school 60 miles round trip and it never gives me problems. I sometimes haul wood, branches and my 4-wheeler around in my truck. To conclude I think that my Sonoma is the best truck I've ever had and wouldn't trade it for any car.

1993 GMC Sonoma 4x4 SL 4.3 165hp

Faults:

Heater core blew, A/C compressor broke, turn signal self-cancel quit, high-beam switch wore out, driver's side lock won't accept key, interior light stopped working.

General Comments:

Drivetrain has been solid as a rock, but climate control, electrical system, and driver controls are suspect. There are currently 109,000 miles on the truck, so a few breakages are acceptable, but it's been in the shop a little too often.

Runs a bit hot, averaging 210 degrees. Has the stripped-down SL trim level, meaning the seats are vinyl, there's no carpet or console. Hades-hot inside in the summer.

4 wheel drive works great, chugging me through snow and muddy fields. Power is OK (lot better than a 4-cyl) but loses a ton when the A/C is on and clutch fan engaged. Second 12v outlet is appreciated. Tough: a Ford Contour rear-ended me, totalling the Ford, but my Sonoma was undamaged. Nice truck, but I'd rather have a '94-up due to their more refined and reliable nature.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th July, 1999